THE SPIRIT of Pickleball was never more evident when Fingal Bay’s Cheryl Mayers joined colleagues John Grace and Stuart Johnston in the winner’s circle at a New Year tribute tournament in Menai.

The talented trio claimed gold at the Michelle Gibson Memorial Spirit of Pickleball Doubles classic in January – a competition that perpetuates the memory of the late Gibson who was the founder of pickleball in the Sutherland Shire.

All three hail from the Port Stephens Pickleball Club Inc based at Nelson Bay and performed strongly at the Menai event along with six fellow clubmates Tony Mayers, Judy Curtis, Marjorie Savage, Leigh Phillips, Eva Xu and president John McDonald.

Experienced Cheryl teamed with the skilful Grace of Anna Bay to capture the Mixed 2.5 Doubles title with John securing a second gold medal after combining with Nelson Bay native Johnston to annex the Men’s 2.5 Doubles trophy.

The crafty pair of Savage and Curtis were part of the Port Stephens medal rush – snaring silver in the Women’s 2.5 Doubles category.

Judy teamed up with Johnston for a fourth placing in the Mixed 2.5 Doubles while McDonald and Phillips sealed a top four finish in the Men’s 2.5/3.5 Doubles.

Club stalwart Tony Mayers and accomplished doubles partner Geoff Mortimer continued their exhilarating form with a fourth placing in the Mens 3.25 Doubles event.

“This was a special tournament in memory of Michelle who was a tremendous ambassador for Pickleball in the Sutherland Shire,” Port Stephens club official Cheryl Sanderson told News Of The Area.

“Our crew turned in spirited performances to pick up three medals with all nine players leaving their mark and contributing to a successful tournament,” she exclaimed.

Persons interested in playing Pickleball can check the Port Stephens Pickleball Inc Facebook page.

By Chris KARAS